Friday, January 18, 2008

The Luscious, Delicious Watermelon for Skin

Gorgeous, luscious and delicious – the watermelon holds a unique place in the hearts of people around the world. As summer approaches and the mercury begins a steady rise, one finds mounds of plump watermelons on roadsides and fruit stalls. There is not much that gives you more satisfaction on a hot, dusty summer afternoon than a crisp, juicy slice of pink watermelon.

Health benefits: This wonder fruit does great things for your body. In the first place it is rich in electrolytes (sodium and potassium) that we lose through sweat. Also the fruit is very filling, has less calorie content and above all is very nourishing.

The watermelon consists of 93% water. A two- cup serving of watermelon contains many important vitamins and minerals. It is a multi-vitamin fruit and contains vitamins A, B6 and C to potassium and iron, which will surely boost your health. Dieticians advise that we should begin the morning with diced melon as they cleanse the body. A bowl of watermelon every morning starts a summer day off with close to no- fat, high fiber goodness. Taken with breakfast, it helps to protect you from the heat. Watermelon is also recommended to be taken in the evenings which are filled with physical activity.

Watermelons are great antioxidants that help you fight free radicals.

Watermelon contains lycopene which is a carotenoid and pigment that gives fruits and vegetables their red color. Preliminary research shows that consuming foods containing lycopene are associated with a decreased risk of prostrate and cervical cancer. Watermelon contains higher concentrations of lycopene (15-20 mg per two-cup serving) than any other fresh fruit or vegetable.

s a beauty aid: This versatile fruit is also a well-known beauty aid. It is widely used in beauty products like lipsticks, lip-gloss and shower gels. Watermelon essence is added to bath and body fragrances.

Watermelon juice protects the skin from the sun. It also clears the skin leaving it free from blemishes, fresh and lovely. Grate a watermelon, squeeze out the juice and apply on the face for 15 minutes. Wash with hot water and then splash on cold water. Your face will feel fresh and clean.

The fiber content in watermelon ensures toxins are scrubbed out of your system leaving your skin healthy and glowing. Mixed with a pinch of gram flour the pulp makes for an excellent scrub.

Watermelon pulp also makes for an excellent 10 minute pack, re-hydrating and exfoliating the skin, leaving it toned and glowing.

To close gaping pores, try rubbing watermelon juice frozen into ice cubes with crushed mint leaves, over the face.